At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to program and optimise CNC machines for precision engineering projects.
- Company: Established precision engineering subcontractor in Birmingham with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, pension contributions, and training budget for skill development.
- Other info: Hands-on role with opportunities for career growth and mentoring junior operators.
- Why this job: Make an impact in automotive, aerospace, and defence sectors while working with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: 4+ years of CNC programming experience and proficiency in multi-axis machining.
The predicted salary is between 38000 - 46000 £ per year.
A well-established precision engineering subcontractor in Birmingham is seeking an experienced CNC Programmer / Setter to join a busy machine shop. You will work across a range of multi-axis milling and turning platforms, taking components from raw material through to finished part — programming offline, proving on the floor, and optimising cycle times to meet tight delivery schedules.
The business supplies customers across automotive, aerospace, and defence sectors, producing complex, low-volume and medium-batch components in steel, aluminium, titanium, and nickel alloys. This is a hands-on role with genuine scope to influence process and tooling decisions.
Machinery you will work on:
- Mazak Integrex i-400 Multi-tasking mill-turn, Mazatrol SmoothX control
- DMG Mori NLX 2500 CNC turning centre, MAPPS V / Fanuc 31i control
- Mazak Variaxis i-600 5-axis VMC, Mazatrol SmoothX, full simultaneous
- Doosan DNM 6700 3-axis vertical machining centre, Fanuc 0i-MF
- Citizen Cincom L20 Swiss-type sliding head lathe, Fanuc 32i control
- XYZ 2-OP / ProTURN Portable VMC and manual-assist turning
- ProtoTRAK CAM & software
Offline programming using Mastercam 2024 (milling and turning) — experience with multi-axis toolpaths (simultaneous 5-axis, swarf, steep & shallow) essential. On-machine programming in Mazatrol SmoothX and Fanuc conversational; ability to hand-edit G-code and M-code directly at the control. Renishaw on-machine probing and tool-setting cycles (RMP60 / OLP40). Solid modelling in SolidWorks or similar for DFM feedback and fixture design. Tooling management via Zoller presetter data integration.
Key responsibilities:
- Write, prove, and optimise CNC programs for milling, turning, and mill-turn operations from customer CAD models and 2D drawings.
- Set and change-over machines including tool assembly, offsets, work coordinates, and probing routines.
- Select cutting tools, inserts, and parameters — working closely with Sandvik and Kennametal technical reps.
- Carry out first-off inspection using Mitutoyo CMM and hand gauging; complete route cards and inspection records to AS9100 / IATF 16949 requirements.
- Reduce cycle times through feeds, speeds, and toolpath strategy improvements — track and report cycle time savings.
- Support junior operators and apprentices, providing on-the-job guidance on setups and machining technique.
- Liaise with the estimating team to provide realistic cycle time and tooling cost inputs for new enquiries.
Essential experience:
- Minimum 4 years of CNC programming and setting in a precision subcontract environment.
- Proven ability on multi-axis turning and milling (4th / 5th axis); mill-turn experience highly desirable.
- Fluent in Fanuc G-code; Mazatrol experience advantageous.
- Proficient with Mastercam or equivalent offline CAM (SolidCAM, GibbsCAM, or HyperMill considered).
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings including GD&T to BS EN ISO 1101.
- Machining of exotic materials: titanium (Ti-6Al-4V), Inconel 718, 17-4PH stainless.
- Time-served apprenticeship or NVQ Level 3 in Engineering Manufacture preferred.
Package:
- Salary £38,000 – £46,000 depending on experience.
- Shift Days Mon – Thurs 7:30–16:00, Fri 7:30–13:00.
- Overtime paid at x1.33 Mon–Sat, x1.5 Sunday.
- 33 days annual leave (including bank holidays).
- Company pension — employer contribution 5%.
- Training budget for CAM software upskilling and tooling courses.
- Free on-site parking.
CAD Programmer in Birmingham employer: Chester & Black
Join a well-established precision engineering subcontractor in Birmingham, where you will be part of a dynamic team dedicated to delivering high-quality components for the automotive, aerospace, and defence sectors. With a strong focus on employee development, we offer extensive training opportunities, a supportive work culture, and competitive benefits including generous annual leave and a company pension scheme. This hands-on role not only allows you to influence process improvements but also provides a chance to work with cutting-edge machinery in a thriving environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land CAD Programmer in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Get your hands dirty! When you’re applying for a CAD Programmer role, make sure to showcase your practical experience. Talk about specific projects where you’ve optimised cycle times or tackled complex machining tasks. We want to see that you can walk the walk, not just talk the talk!
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts or join relevant groups on social media. Engaging with others in the precision engineering field can lead to job opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet. Plus, it’s a great way to learn about the latest trends and technologies!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your technical skills. Be ready to discuss your experience with multi-axis programming and G-code. We love candidates who can demonstrate their knowledge and problem-solving abilities on the spot, so don’t hold back!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we often have exclusive roles listed there that you won’t find anywhere else. So, don’t miss out — get your application in today!
We think you need these skills to ace CAD Programmer in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the CAD Programmer role. Highlight your experience with multi-axis milling and turning, and don’t forget to mention any specific machines or software you’ve worked with, like Mastercam or Mazatrol.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention your hands-on experience and how you can influence process and tooling decisions in our busy machine shop.
Showcase Your Skills:When filling out your application, be sure to showcase your skills in CNC programming and setting. Include examples of how you've optimised cycle times or supported junior operators in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and get you on board with our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Chester & Black
✨Know Your Machines
Familiarise yourself with the specific machinery mentioned in the job description, like the Mazak Integrex and DMG Mori turning centre. Being able to discuss your hands-on experience with these machines will show that you're not just a programmer but also someone who understands the equipment inside out.
✨Master the Software
Brush up on your Mastercam skills and any other CAM software you’ve used. Be ready to talk about how you've optimised toolpaths or reduced cycle times in past roles. This will demonstrate your ability to hit the ground running and contribute to the team immediately.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've tackled challenges in CNC programming or machining. Whether it’s improving cycle times or troubleshooting a programming issue, having concrete examples will illustrate your critical thinking and adaptability.
✨Understand the Industry Standards
Get familiar with AS9100 and IATF 16949 requirements, as well as GD&T principles. Being able to discuss how you ensure compliance with these standards in your work will set you apart as a candidate who takes quality seriously.
